The list of television shows canceled has been released by the networks. Are Below Deck Mediterranean and Below Deck Sailing Yacht on that list?
MANY SHOWS CANCELED
No one knows the exact reasons for the cancellation of particular shows. In specific, decreased viewership, lack of political correctness, unpopular storylines?
NOT-SO-GOOD NEWS
Per TV Insider, in no particular order, some shows did not fare well. For example, gone are ABC’s, The Baker and the Beauty, and CBS’s, Criminal Minds and God Friended Me. In addition, Cinemax’s Strike Back, The CW’s, Arrow, and Facebook Watch’s, Sorry for Your Loss. Further, Fox’s Almost Family, Freeform’s Party of 5, the History Channel’s, Vikings, and POP TV’s, Schitt’s Creek.
BUT WHAT ABOUT BELOW DECK MEDITERRANEAN?
Good news, viewers. The Below Deck shows are not on the chopping block this season.
WHAT A YEAR THUS FAR…
In conclusion, this year has been a series of challenges. For instance, the Coronavirus Pandemic, protests about police brutality and racism (think George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, etc), and decisions to wear or not to wear masks (and thoughts of political motivations behind health choices). In addition, the Australian bushfire, the deaths of Kobe Bryant plus 8 passengers in helicopter crash, flooding in Indonesia, the phases of the moon and planets, business closures, you name it.
SO WHAT TO DO NOW
Life is returning to normal. Yes, it is a “new normal,” but nonetheless, MORE normal than in the past few months. Yachtsmen and women are renting yachts and going on vacation again. SO WHY NOT JOIN THEM? Many ports and countries have reopened to travelers and yachts, so contact us for information as to which destinations you may now enjoy!
Which 2020 changes and activities have affected you the most? PLEASE COMMENT BELOW!
Thinking of sheltering in place? First, in a remote destination? Second, in private? Third, on a luxury yacht charter vessel? Great thought, but STOP. Before you get your hopes up, we have a report. Getting on a yacht may be a BIG problem right now. This is a result of more islands closing their borders to yachts. It is particularly difficult for all.
BEFORE THE CORONAVIRUS
Traditionally, spring is the most popular season for Caribbean yacht charters. We have fully-crewed superyachts in position. They are ready to accept guests. For example, from the Bahamas to Bonaire.
Unfortunately, the unexpected outbreak of a global viral pandemic has affected the industry. It brings the idea of a charter in the Caribbean to a screeching halt.
ADVISORIES AND CURFEWS
This started as travel advisories and then curfews. It morphed into full closures of most island nations in the Caribbean. This affects both air and sea access.
GUESTS OR NOT
In some cases, charter guests already onboard may stay onboard. However, as of March 30, most charter vessels are restricted. Therefore, they cannot accept new guests in almost every inhabited island in the Caribbean. For instance, the British Virgin Islands and St. Marten.
CLOSED (no re-opening dates announced)
TRINIDAD … not only
ST LUCIA
ARUBA … but also
BONAIRE
CURAÇAO
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS (BVI)
MARIE-GALANTE and THE SAINTS
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC (DR)
DOMINICA … in addition,
GRENADA
ST. MAARTEN (ST. MARTIN)
MARTINIQUE
GUADELOUPE
ANTIGUA and BARBUDA … lastly,
ST KITTS & NEVIS
RESTRICTIONS
Restrictions exist. For instance,
MONTSERRAT. Mandatory 14 day quarantine
USVI (U.S. Virgin Islands). Closed to all visitors for 30 days. Charter vessels, hotels, guest houses, etc. are restricted. They may not accept new guests. Guests who have already checked in are advised to return home. They cam remain, if they choose, however. Airport and Seaports are open. All non-essential businesses are closed. Residents are asked to stay at home. All bars across the Territory are closed. In-house dining is not allowed at restaurants. Take-out services are permissible. Additionally,
ANGUILLA. Both sea and air ports are closed to all passengers. This applies for an initial 14-day period, from 20 March.
BAHAMAS. Incoming passenger flights are banned. Significantly, seaports remain open for cargo and supply vessels only. Moreover, All inter-island sailing and cruising is prohibited.
BARBADOS. Airports and marinas are open. Whether by yacht or plane, all visitors arriving from the UK, Europe, and the United States will be placed in quarantine for 14 days. Anyone arriving with a travel history from China, Iran, and South Korea are also subject to a 14-day quarantine. Further,
DOMINICA. Airports and seaports closed. There is an exception for planes and ships bringing vitally-needed cargo and medical relief supplies.
ST. VINCENT and the GRENADINES. Mandatory 14 day quarantine for any passengers arriving from China and other countries. For instance, the European Union, Iran, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
STAY INFORMED / DISCLAIMER
In conclusion, this is not a complete list of all restrictions in the Caribbean. Border and marina/port closures change rapidly. Moreover, air traffic suspensions change, too. In the meantime, 1-800 Yacht Charters will keep this information updated as much as possible. We encourage our blog readers to check official country websites and local news sources for the latest travel advisories and closures/restrictions. For specific luxury yacht charter questions, please email us at info@1800yachtcharters.com
Janet Winters is the author of The Barn Goddess Chronicles, a blog celebrating the equestrian lifestyle. Winters refers to the lifestyle as, “…a journey of adventure, discovery and community…We never know what any particular ride will be like.”
That spirit of adventure bonds the equestrian and yachting lifestyles together. Indeed, each time we “climb aboard” – whether it’s a steed or a luxury yacht – we have the chance to immerse ourselves in adventure. Moreover, it’s an opportunity to rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit.
THE DESTINATION
It’s hard to imagine a luxury yacht charter destination that beckons to equestrian travelers more than the Mediterranean. The Eastern “Med” includes Greece and the Aegean Sea. The Western Med covers the French Riviera and Italy’s western coast, as well as the islands of Corsica and Sardinia. The scenery is breathtaking. In fact, everywhere you turn, you see hills and mountains that look down on uncrowded beaches and turquoise-green waters.
Remember the classic film, The Black Stallion? (Oh, who could forget!!??) The young, shipwrecked boy and his newfound equine friend are inseparable. It is a magnificent friendship. They spend much of the first part of the film exploring an uninhabited beach and frolicking in the sea.
Those mesmerizing scenes take place on the beautiful island of Sardinia.
Just look at the color of the water!!!!
GO, GO, GO – FEI MONACO
Are you familiar with the places to see and the things to do during a yacht charter in the Med? Please don’t worry if your answer is “no.” Our team will create a bespoke itinerary for you. It will be based on the activities you enjoy.
For example, we created a Equestrian-Friendly yacht charter itinerary that kicks off in Monaco at the annual FEI Monte Carlo, Port Hercules Standard Show (June 25-25).
Day 1: Monaco
The FEI show jumping arena is set up right in front of the marina! Your superyacht will serve as your floating hotel while you attend the event.
Try to envision the sequence of your day.
First, you wake up and enjoy an open-air breakfast, on deck. Everywhere you look you see beautiful yachts, docked side by side. Second, you take the short walk to the FEI arena for an exciting day of world-class show jumping. When you need a break, your crew is standing by – ready to serve you a freshly-prepared lunch. No one but you and your family and friends are onboard. Third, when the jumping is over for the day, you and your guests return to your luxury yacht. After all, it’s time for an impromptu and oh-so-casual cocktail hour!
Without a doubt, it’s hard to imagine a more convenient vacation arrangement for watching the FEI show… This is the Equestrian Lifestyle at its best…
Now, its time to explore Monaco and then set off for adventure. Let’s look at the rest of your 7-night itinerary:
Day 2: Monaco
Monaco is the second smallest state in Europe. The only city, Monte-Carlo, is synonymous with all things luxury – casinos, resorts, superyachts, exclusive parties, and exotic cars. You and your family and guests can enjoy activities such as:
-Helicopter rides over the city
-A test drive in a F1 race car
-Lunch at Le Vistamar, at Hotel Hermitage*
-Dancing the night away at the exclusive nightclub, Jimmy’z.
*Additionally, other beautiful lunch options include Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Au Grand Inquisteur
Finally, the dining experience at 3-Michelin star restaurant, Louis XV is not to be missed. This fine establishment features the unique food interpretation of international renowned executive-chef Alain Ducasse.
Day 3: Pampelonne Beach, St.Tropez
Pampelonne Beach is the sandy locale that fuels St Tropez’s fame. Over 20,000 people a day visit this beach in the peak of the summer (July/August). Even so, you’ll never feel overwhelmed as your private superyacht is at anchor, just a few yards from the beach. You decide how much interaction, if any, you want with the local community and tourists. The top beach clubs/restaurants worthy of a visit are Nikki Beach, Bagatelle, Cap 21, Les Murenes, and Le Club 55.
WHAT AWAITS YOU…
Day 4: ????
Are you wondering, “What’s in store for day four?” Just what is on the horizon for the rest of the week?
Adventure awaits, and it all starts with a click of your computer mouse.
In other words, we need to hear from you!
Please CLICK HERE and send us an email. We will send you the complete 7-night sample itinerary.
Our sample itinerary begins your charter in Monaco and ends in picturesque Portofino. That is along the Italian Riviera. Use the comment box below to simply request our “Sample Mediterranean itinerary for Equestrians on Vacation.”
HOW TO BOOK YOUR EQUESTRIAN YACHT CHARTER
In conclusion, we paraphrase fellow blogger Janet Winters. “Let your equestrian lifestyle lead you to the warm waters of the Mediterranean. Here, a journey of adventure and discovery awaits.” Indeed it does – onboard your own private charter. Enjoy The Superyacht Experience™ by 1-800 Yacht Charters
Miami’s premier superyacht marina, Island Gardens Deep Harbour, is under new management. The “upgrade” in management, in our opinion, is long overdue.
WHAT IS THE NEW NAME?
The new name for the Miami Superyacht Marina is Yacht Haven Grande Miami at Island Gardens. The marina opened in 2016 and is the annual home of the SuperYacht Miami Show each February.
ABOUT IGY MARINAS
Island Global Yachting (also known as IGY Marinas) will operate the rebranded Miami marina. This destination offers 50 superyacht berths – for yachts up to a maximum length of 550ft. In-slip fueling is available. High-power electrical service is also available.
LOCATION OF SUPERYACHT MARINA
The marina is located on Watson Island. The island is ideally located between Miami Beach to the east and downtown Miami to the west. Indeed, the views of the Miami skyline are postcard-perfect. The proximity to trendy area hotspots is unbeatable. This deep-water marina is always our first choice for our Miami yacht charter clients. Nevertheless, the marina was less than ideal for the yacht crews as they awaited the arrival of our charter guests. Specifically, the marina lacked a captain and crew lounge. Furthermore, customs and immigration assistance was sketchy at best.
MARINA AMENITIES
IGY has resolved these issues. There is now a crew lounge, as well as a conference room. Additionally, concierge services are available including valet and laundry/dry cleaning. On-site dining is also available. In fact, the newly re-opened dock-side café, aptly named, “The Deck” is described by Forbes as “Miami’s Hottest New Restaurant.”
MARINA SERVICES
We’re excited to take advantage of the new services and amenities. Apprehension gives way to anticipation, as we await the upcoming Superyacht Miami show (February 2021). We are unsure as to whether the show will go on or be well-attended in 2021. In specific, Covid, the pandemic, the Coronavirus changed the landscape of events. What’s exciting about the show? As an example, in the past, we transported prospective clients to the show via yacht tenders. The car parking lot was poorly maintained. We found it simpler, cleaner, more in tune with the theme, AND more fun to arrive via boat. Arrival by car is once again an option, with IGY concierge services in place.
We’re excited to welcome IGY Marinas to Miami. Moreover, we look forward to commencing more Miami superyacht charter vacations from this rebranded location.
HOW TO BOOK YOUR YACHT CHARTER
In conclusion, book a superyacht with us for your own private luxury yacht charter vacation today! Contact your yacht charter brokers at 1-800 Yacht Charters at 305-720-7245. If you prefer, complete our online inquiry form at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now/ .
We will be in touch with you right away to plan The Superyacht Experience™ for you!
The owner of super yacht KISMET, Floridian Shad Khan, announces a donation of $1 million dollars to help Covid-19 relief efforts.
As a result, the funds will be given to several northeast Florida organizations.
WHO IS YACHT KISMET OWNER?
Khan is an avid yachtsman and owner of the NFL Jacksonville Jaguars.
WHO RECEIVES COVID-19 DONATION MONEY?
The gifts will be distributed to multiple groups, such as
Florida’s First Coast Relief Fund – $400,000
Feeding Northeast Florida – $75,000
Clara White Mission supporting the homeless in Jacksonville – $75,000
Jacksonville Public Education Fund – $50,000
American Red Cross / Jacksonville chapter – $50,000
STATEMENT ON JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS SITE
The Jaguars released a statement by Khan on the team’s website to announce the gift. It reads, in part:
“I want to say thank you to every group or individual who is personally stepping up for the people of Jacksonville during these uncertain times”
Obviously an incredibly generous person. We are so proud to charter his beautiful yacht and to be in the same industry.
YACHT KISMET DETAILS
Again, Khan owns the 312 foot superyacht KISMET. She is a 2014 Lurssen. Specifically, she accommodates up to 12 guests in 6 staterooms. The yacht employs a crew of 28 attend to the charter guests. The crew members also handle the daily operation of the yacht. In fact, yacht operations include food and beverage service, and all onshore logistics. Common logistics involve tours and event reservations, vehicle transportation, and airport transfers.
The yacht charters for €1,200,000 per week. Her rate includes the yacht, crew, and use of onboard amenities. Also included in rate is use of watertoys. Any local VAT and all running expenses (for instance, food, fuel, bar and dockage) are additional. Eastern and Western Mediterranean are available ports of call for summer 2020.
WHAT IS SUMMER 2020 DESTINATION?
Multiple islands in the Eastern and Western Med. For example,
Albania
Balearic Islands
Canary Islands
Catalonia
Corsica
Costa del Sol
Croatia
Cyprus
French Riviera & Monaco … in addition,
Greece – Aegean/Cyclades Sea, Ionian Sea
Italy – North (mainland), Sardinia, Sicily, South (mainland)
It should be noted that Khan plans to make additional contributions as needed. What a generous hero! He is ready to help his fellow Floridians combat the Coronavirus. As of March 30, the state of Florida reports 5705 cases and 77 deaths.
For additional information or to charter superyacht KISMET, please CLICK HERE today.
Avid yachtsman Gregory Kutsen is the owner of Mantus Marine. His company manufactures and sells nautical items. For instance, boat anchors, boat lights, SCUBA gear, and other products. Mantus Marine products are found on many luxury yacht charter vessels.
Kutsen’s goal is to make everyone’s boating experience more enjoyable and safer.
“We constantly look at new ways of solving existing problems.” Gregory Kutsen
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
Apparently, Kutsen’s company mission goes beyond the marine industry. Greg Kutsen, nautical business owner, is also Dr. Greg Kutsen, MD. Kutsen is an emergency room physician in Houston Texas. There’s a critical shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) in his community. As a result, Kutsen and Mantus Marine are shifting from building anchors. Now, they convert snorkel masks into PPE medical devices to address the shortage!
Kutsen sees firsthand the importance of medical equipment to protect the hospital workers in Texas.
“I work as an ER Doctor so the shortage and the need for PPE was very clear (amid the COVID-19 pandemic).”
ADDRESSING A NEED
Mantus Marine has several innovative solutions to address the needs of health care professionals and hospitals. They use 3D printers to convert snorkel masks into BiPAP ventilator masks. They also design and produce acrylic intubation shields.
The masks and shields are donated to local emergency rooms and ICUs in the Houston area.
Simultaneously, the anchor manufacturer addresses the immediate shortages of PPE in health care systems. A recent media article states
“…(using their connections with) international supply chains…Mantus Marine purchased over 1.5 million surgical masks, 100,000 *KN95 masks, and 70,000 face shields to help supply hospitals across the state, including the Memorial Hermann and Methodist Hospital systems in Houston and regional hospitals and clinics in the Dallas area.”
N95 VS. KN95 Masks
Yes, you read it* correctly in the quote. Masks donated were KN95 (not N95) masks. KN95 masks are made in China and have a different fit than N95 masks, among a few other differences. Both are authorized for use during the Covid-19 pandemic. For more information about the differences in KN95 and N95, click here.
WE SALUTE OUR HEROES
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters and her team are proud to acknowledge Dr. Gregory Kutsen and Mantus Marine. These heroes solve problems and make a difference. Both on sea and on land. APPLAUSE AND GRATITUDE.
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The world of luxury yacht charter has finally arrived in the Seychelles. Motor yacht SEA STREAM, a 76 foot Ferretti with room for 8 guests, is now available for Caribbean yacht charter enthusiasts looking for a new destination. Ferretti yacht SEA STREAM is now available as the only high quality, luxury crewed motor yacht available […] read more
PLAN AND PACK Yikes! What to pack? In just over three weeks, you leave on a week-long Bahama yacht charter vacation. You choose a sleek, performance, basic sailing yacht with crew. Your menu provided to your yacht through your charter broker, and your crew is ready to welcome you aboard. Seriously, what do you pack? […] read more
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